Newark: Fourth person arrested in connection with death of 17-year-old Justice Afoa

NEWARK -- Police have arrested a fourth man in connection with the 2010 stabbing death of 17-year-old Newark Memorial High School student Justice Afoa, officials said Thursday.

Anthony Bernal, 22, of Newark, was arrested Monday on suspicion of assaulting Afoa and a second person at a house party in Newark on Oct. 30, 2010. Police say Afoa, a talented football player, was killed Dec. 15, 2010, in retaliation for that fight, which sent the other person to the hospital with a severe stab wound.

Bernal has been charged by the Alameda County District Attorney's office with multiple felonies, including assault with a deadly weapon resulting in great bodily injury, attempted carjacking and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, police said.

He also faces a possible gang enhancement charge. Police said the investigation is continuing and that they have not ruled out additional arrests.

Last week, Daniela Guzman, Rafael Tovar and Daniel Howard were arrested and booked in Santa Rita Jail on charges of murder in connection with Afoa's death.

Afoa was stabbed and killed on Cedar Boulevard at Birch Street in Newark.

Anyone with information about these incidents can contact the department's non-emergency line at 510-578-4237 and ask for the Detective Division.

Information can also be left anonymously on the "silent witness" hotline at 510-578-4965.